By: Bon Miguela Nhlapo
The Springbok Women have begun preparations for Friday’s WXV Global Series opener against Wales at Cardiff Arms Park.
The team departed Cape Town on Saturday afternoon and arrived in the Welsh capital on Sunday evening before holding their first training session at Cardiff Metropolitan University on Monday.
Despite the lingering effects of the long-haul journey, which included a layover in Dubai, co-coach Laurian Johannes-Haupt was pleased with the squad’s first session on Welsh soil.
It was a good session and although some players were still a bit sore following the long-haul flight that included a transit in Dubai, we did some good work today, with clarity the main focus,” said Johannes-Haupt.
“We brought some match simulation into the session as well, and everybody understands their roles.”
The session was held in typical Welsh conditions, with wind and rain making an appearance. However, Johannes-Haupt said the weather did little to affect the squad’s mood as they embraced the challenge awaiting them on Friday.
There is nothing you can do about the weather, and it is going to be like this for the rest of the week, so the earlier we adapt, the better,” she said.
The Springbok Women have not faced Wales since 2021 and have won just two of their six previous encounters against the Welsh side. South Africa’s last victory over Wales came in 2010, adding further motivation for the Women Boks to make a statement in the opening fixture.
We wanted to be part of the WXV Global Series for a reason, and the main one was the opportunity to play the best teams in the world,” said Johannes-Haupt.
“That opportunity starts on Friday. It will be tough. Wales is also a forward-dominating team, like us, so it will be an interesting match-up.”
There was one late change to the touring squad before departure, with Anacadia Minnaar unable to make the trip and Felicia Jacobs drafted into the group.
Jacobs last toured with the squad to Fiji in August. Her return to Cardiff also carries personal significance, as she made her Test debut for South Africa against Wales in the Welsh capital in 2019.
It is a pity that Anacadia could not travel, but this gives Felicia the opportunity to add more experience on the international stage, and we are excited about her involvement,” said Johannes-Haupt.
The Springbok Women will continue their preparations in Cardiff throughout the week, with the starting XV to face Wales set to be announced on Wednesday.
The match at Cardiff Arms Park kicks off on Friday.